UMC’s Political Momentum Meets Electoral Law, Analysts Say

By Alagi Yorro Jallow

The United Movement for Change (UMC) has emerged as one of the most vibrant political movements in recent Gambian politics, drawing huge crowds, youthful enthusiasm, and strong diaspora support during its inaugural congress. However, despite its growing popularity and organizational strength, analysts say the movement remains legally unrecognized as a political party under Gambian electoral law.

Political observers argue that the movement’s political momentum is now colliding with the strict requirements of the Elections Act, which clearly states that a political party only comes into existence after official registration by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

Political scientist Essa Njie noted that much of the public confusion stems from a misunderstanding of Section 104 of the Elections Act. According to him, the section merely outlines the functions of political parties, such as shaping political will and sponsoring candidates, but does not grant party status.

He emphasized that the legal definition of a political party is found in the interpretation section of the law, which states that a political party must be registered in accordance with the Act before it can sponsor candidates or appear on the ballot.

The report further highlighted that UMC’s earlier attempt to register under the name UNITE was reportedly rejected over procedural irregularities, including incomplete documentation and signature discrepancies. Analysts say the movement failed to submit a corrected application before electoral timelines tightened.

Under Section 106 of the Elections Act, organizations seeking party status must submit a constitution, executive list, audited accounts, regional offices, and signatures from registered voters before the IEC can issue a certificate of registration.

Legal experts say the implications are straightforward: while a movement may organize congresses, elect leaders, and mobilize supporters, it cannot sponsor candidates for public office unless officially registered as a political party.

As a result, UMC leader Ahmed Talib Bensouda would only be eligible to contest future elections either as an independent candidate or through sponsorship by an already registered political party.

Observers nevertheless praised the movement’s congress as a major display of democratic organization and generational political ambition, describing it as a departure from the traditional “coronation-style” politics often associated with Gambian political culture.

Despite the excitement surrounding the movement, analysts insist that the IEC cannot recognize political popularity as a substitute for legal compliance.

“The law is blind to crowds and color. It sees only compliance,” the commentary concluded, stressing that UMC must satisfy the legal registration process if it hopes to transform political momentum into formal electoral participation.